A special woodland area is to be created on the outksirts of Derry as a tribute to those who fought in the First World War.
The project is one of four flagship woods being created throughout Britain to mark the 100th anniversary of The Great War which took place from 1014 to 1018.
Up to 40,000 native trees and carpets of wildflowers, including iconic poppies, are to be planted on a 53-acre site along the River Faughan, just off the Glenshane Road.
A special memorial area will be created to provide a place for quiet reflection.
Patrick Cregg, director of the Woodland Trust in Northern Ireland, said the development would feature carpets of wildflowers, including iconic poppies.
He added: “This new wood will be a living, lasting tribute to the people from the island of Ireland who fought or supported others during the war.”
“This site has an absolutely ideal location1. We have the renowned River Faughan running alongside us; while a number of woods, including fragments of ancient woodland, dot the nearby banks of the river.
“Species here include endangered red squirrels, otters, kingfishers and purple hairstreak butterflies.”
Mr Cregg concluded: “Our goal is to create a new stretch of glorious woodland, which will link the nearby woods and form a continuous wildlife corridor.”
